Kiev criticizes Jared Leto for his promise to hold concerts in Russia

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry is outraged by Jared Leto's intention to hold concerts in both Russia and Ukraine after the conflict concludes. Read Full Article at RT.com

Kiev criticizes Jared Leto for his promise to hold concerts in Russia
The frontman of Thirty Seconds to Mars, Jared Leto, has stirred controversy with his comments regarding future concerts in Ukraine and Russia, following the ongoing conflict.

During a concert in Belgrade, Serbia, Leto addressed his Russian fans, encouraging them to raise their hands in celebration and expressing his desire to perform in both Moscow and Kiev once the situation improves. He remarked, "once all these problems are finished," hinting at his plans to visit his supporters in their native countries.

"I know we have people from all over the world here tonight. I thought I felt a little of that Russian energy. Did you miss us?" he said after inquiring about the presence of Russian attendees, eliciting cheers from the crowd.

The reaction from the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry was swift and critical, labeling Leto's aspirations to perform in Russia as an insult to those who are risking their lives to uphold freedom. In a post on X, the ministry condemned his remarks and called for "no appeasement for Russia" as long as the nation continues "to solve the ‘problem’ of Ukraine’s very existence."

Currently, the band is on tour to promote their latest album, ‘It’s the End of the World but It’s a Beautiful Day.’ Leto, who won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in 2014 for his role in ‘Dallas Buyers Club,’ had previously performed in Russia before the conflict escalated in February 2022.

When contacted by TASS, Leto’s agent, Alexandra Trustman, declined to comment on his acceptance of potential concerts in Russia, stating she cannot “facilitate any correspondence” with the singer.

Earlier this year, Ukrainian authorities also criticized the US television network HBO, leading to the removal of Serbian-born actor Milos Bikovic from ‘The White Lotus’ due to his alleged ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Additionally, in August, Ukraine's government urged its Western allies to prevent soprano Anna Netrebko from performing outside Russia after it was announced she would star in a Rome Opera production.

Last year, Kyiv condemned Roger Waters, co-founder of Pink Floyd, for his comments at the United Nations Security Council where he criticized Western arms supplies to Ukraine, claiming the conflict was “not unprovoked.”

Ramin Sohrabi for TROIB News